Drop the anchor at Sydney Harbour’s waterfront bars

Soak up the sun and spectacular harbour at this Sydney local’s favourite at Watson’s Bay. It’s no secret, so get in there early for a table with a view. The menu is Mediterranean inspired – think whitebait fritti, clam spaghetti and pork ragu, or just ‘settle’ for a buckets of prawns with a glass of prosecco or craft beer.

Kids meals are free on Sundays between 5pm and 7pm, if you’re so inclined to let them go with you that is.

Take a short stroll to the fully netted 50 metre ocean pool to get your laps in.

Merivale’s Justin Hemmes has really set the standard for Sydney’s food and beverage scene. It’s not just about the menu, its about embracing the local scene and understanding what a venue requires to wow the crowd. Merivale’s Manly offering – Papi Chulo is the perfect example.

While not exactly on the waterfront, this East Sydney favourite in Double Bay is only a stone’s throw from the waters edge. There’s a space for everyone at The Sheaf, with a massive beer garden out back, neatly named The Garden, The Canopy, The Terrace, Soda (the classic cocktail bar) and the Public Bar for when you want to join the local Rooster fans on game night.

The menu offers pub favourites – pizzas, burgers and steaks off the grill. And our suggestion, if you were going to drink Pimms anywhere, then Double Bay is definitely the place to.

Balmain… So many pubs… It’s really hard to make a clear choice when offered with so many options, however, when one of them just happens to be right on the water, it makes the choice just that little bit easier.

The Dry Dock hotel is like a pair of old slippers. A bit worn around the edges but oh so comfortable. There’s no pretension here. Staff are lovely and attentive, your canine friends are welcome, there’s sport playing everywhere and the beers are cold and reasonably priced.